COAS warns foreign spies in Balochistan of action

• Army chief says those working against national interest will not be spared at any cost, will go to any length to establish writ of state in Balochistan
• PM and army chief discuss possibility of expanding Operation Zarb-e-Azb in Balochistan in wake of deteriorating security situation

During his visit to Southern Command Headquarters in Quetta, where he was briefed on ongoing operations against terrorists in Balochistan, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif on Wednesday warned the local and foreign anti-state elements, including foreign spy agencies, of dire consequences if they try to destabilise Pakistan by supporting insurgents in Balochistan.

Speaking on the occasion, the COAS said that those found involved in any sort of activity against national interest will not be spared any cost and armed forces responsible for security will go to any length to establish writ of the state.

Gen Sharif said that the armed forces of Pakistan are striving hard to bring peace and prosperity to the province and Frontier Works Organization (FWO) will continue its construction projects in the area.

He expressed his condolences over killing of workers in Turbat and warned all miscreants and foreign intelligence agencies to refrain from interference in the country.

The army chief said that army will continue supporting the Balochistan government till terrorism is wiped out.

“We will unearth terrorists, abettors, sympathizers, financiers. None will find place in country to hide. We will go to any length for the writ of state,” he said.

According to a statement issued by the army’s chief spokesman Maj Gen Asim Bajwa, the COAS met the Quetta governor, chief minister and Southern Command commander while he also visited FC Headquarters, reviewed security situation and the progress made in FC operation against terrorists.

Highlighting Balochistan’s security challenges, the COAS emphasised the need to adopt integrated approach by the civil and military leaderships and LEAs.

Moreover, Gen Sharif called on Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in Islamabad on Wednesday. Matters related to Balochistan came under discussion.

Sources said that the two leaders discussed expansion of Operation Zarb-e-Azb in Balochistan to contain the deteriorating law and order situation and eliminate militant outfits operating in the province.